That’s Enough: Shaquille O’Neal’s Mom Lucille Sternly Advised Him to Stop Feuding with Kobe Bryant
Shaquille O’Neal’s mother, Lucille O’Neal, recently appeared on Brandi Harvey’s Vault Empowers show, where she was asked about her role in keeping her son grounded. Lucille shared that she never had to intervene as Shaq became famous because she always believed in his good nature. However, there was a significant moment when she had to step in during the tumultuous relationship between Shaquille and the late Kobe Bryant.
Lucille recalled the struggles between Shaq and Kobe during their time with the Los Angeles Lakers. She mentioned having a serious conversation with her son during this period of conflict. She stated, “I have caught him up in some instances where I said, ‘That’s enough’… When he and Kobe were not getting along, I told him to stop airing their differences in public. Y’all have to learn how to get along.”
Her guidance had a positive impact; O’Neal reflected on how he did take her advice to heart, leading to better dynamics between him and Kobe. “It helped their relationship when I said it’s time to let that go,” Lucille added, emphasizing her role in encouraging reconciliation.
The feud between Shaq and Kobe was a prominent issue in the NBA for years, filled with public remarks and even a physical altercation. Their rivalry became so intense that it reached a point where the Lakers decided to trade Shaq to the Miami Heat.
Even amidst the feud, Shaquille’s respect for his mother was evident as he heeded her advice and changed his behavior. Lucille’s influence extended beyond this incident; she has often acted as a guiding force in his life.
In a separate conversation with Draymond Green, Shaq recounted another instance where Lucille intervened after he had a confrontation with Charles Barkley during a game. Shaq described how he had felt compelled to respond to a hit he took from Barkley, leading to an attempted punch that missed.
After the altercation, Shaquille was handed a phone by his uncle while walking down the tunnel. On the other end was not only his mother but also Charles Barkley’s mother, who shared her disapproval of the situation. Shaq recalled, “I’m like, ‘Hello,’ and it was my mom and Charles’ mom on the phone. She’s like, ‘Y’all shouldn’t be doing this.’ I’m like, ‘Who is this?’ My mom [said], ‘Shaq, this is Charles’ mom.’ [I said,] ‘Yes, ma’am.’ [Chuck’s mom said,] ‘Y’all stop this. I already talked to Charles. Y’all hug it out.’
With such a strong directive from both mothers involved, Shaquille could only comply. He later reflected on how Lucille had known Barkley’s mother for years, highlighting the deep connections that influenced both players beyond the basketball court.
Through all these moments, Lucille O’Neal showcased her wisdom and influence in Shaquille’s life, reminding him to prioritize respect and unity over rivalry, shaping him into not only a remarkable athlete but also a better person.
